A Narrative Review of the Assessment and Treatment of Physical Impairments Commonly Seen in Sarcoma Cancer Survivors Using a Rehabilitative Approach

Background: Sarcomas are a rare, complex group of malignancies characterized by numerous clinical and pathological features. Sarcomas originate from various tissues such as fat, muscle, bone, nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues. Typically, the treatment of sarcomas consists of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The location, type, stage, and treatment of sarcomas contribute to the development of physical impairments affecting joint and limb function, peripheral nerves, strength, and mobility, diminishing physical function and quality of life. Traditionally, rehabilitative therapy has been implemented after cancer treatment to help improve physical impairments imparted from cancer therapy. Recent work in rehabilitative medicine has explored the implementation of rehabilitative therapy prior to beginning cancer treatment (pre-habilitation) to help mitigate the detrimental physical consequences seen in sarcoma patients.

Objective: The objective of this narrative review is to examine the physical impairments affecting sarcoma patients after cancer therapy and the impact of rehabilitative medicine on physical function and quality of life when implemented before and after cancer treatment.